Pope Leo XIV Announces Canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati

In a historic announcement during the Ordinary Public Consistory, Pope Leo XIV revealed the canonization of two young and inspiring figures in the Catholic Church—Blesseds Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. The canonization ceremony is set to take place on Sunday, September 7, 2025, marking a significant moment in the Church’s history as these two will be the first saints canonized by Pope Leo XIV.

The Significance of the Canonizations

Canonization is a formal declaration by the Pope that a deceased person lived a life of extraordinary holiness and virtue, officially declaring them a saint. This announcement signifies not only the recognition of their lives and contributions to the faith but also serves as an inspiration for the Catholic community worldwide.

Both Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati were known for their deep faith and commitment to serving others, making their canonization particularly meaningful in today’s world.

Who Was Carlo Acutis?

Carlo Acutis, who lived from 1991 to 2006, was an Italian teenager known for his profound love for the Eucharist, which he referred to as his “highway to heaven.” He was not only a devout Catholic but also a tech-savvy individual who utilized his skills to create a website documenting Eucharistic miracles around the world. Carlo’s life was tragically cut short when he passed away at the young age of 15 due to leukemia.

His beatification took place in October 2020, and he is often referred to as the "Millennial Saint" due to his relatability to young people today. His dedication to his faith and his efforts to share it through modern technology are seen as pivotal aspects of his legacy.

Who Was Pier Giorgio Frassati?

Pier Giorgio Frassati, born in 1901 in Turin, Italy, and died in 1925 at the age of 24, was known for his vibrant personality and deep commitment to social justice. He was an active member of the Catholic Action movement and dedicated his life to helping the poor and marginalized. Frassati was also an avid mountaineer and enjoyed the outdoors, which he often used as a way to connect with God.

His beatification took place in 1990, and he is remembered for his profound spirituality and commitment to serving others. Frassati’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of faith in action and the impact one can have on their community through service.

The Impact of Their Lives

The upcoming canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati is expected to inspire a new generation of Catholics. Their lives exemplify the call to holiness that the Church encourages, showing that one does not need to be of advanced age or have a long life to achieve sainthood. Their stories resonate particularly with young people, encouraging them to embrace their faith and live it out actively in their daily lives.

The Role of Young Saints in the Church

The canonization of these young saints highlights the Church’s recognition of the important role that youth play in the faith community. As society continues to evolve, the Church seeks to address the challenges faced by young people today, and having saints like Carlo and Pier Giorgio can provide relatable role models.

These canonizations also reflect a broader trend within the Church to uplift figures who embody the values of compassion, service, and a deep commitment to their faith while navigating the complexities of modern life.

What to Expect from the Canonization Ceremony

The canonization ceremony on September 7, 2025, will be a significant event in the Catholic Church, drawing pilgrims and faithful from around the world. The ceremony is expected to include a Mass led by Pope Leo XIV, with various religious leaders and dignitaries in attendance. The event will celebrate not only the lives of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati but also the universal call to holiness that all Christians are invited to pursue.

Conclusion

Pope Leo XIV’s announcement of the canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati is a momentous occasion for the Catholic Church, heralding a new chapter in the recognition of saints who resonate with contemporary society. Their lives serve as powerful testimonies to the importance of faith, service, and the pursuit of holiness. As the Church prepares for this historic event, the faithful are invited to reflect on the legacies of these two remarkable individuals and consider how they can incorporate their values into their own lives.

The canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati will not only honor their memories but also inspire countless others to deepen their faith and commit themselves to a life of service, love, and community. As we await this significant day in 2025, let us celebrate the impact that these young saints have had on the Church and the world.

BREAKING: During today’s Ordinary Public Consistory, Pope Leo XIV officially announced his first canonizations: the young Blesseds Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati will be proclaimed saints on Sunday, September 7, 2025. They will be the first saints canonized by the new… pic.twitter.com/Oci9TDFZ0F

— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) June 13, 2025

BREAKING: During today’s Ordinary Public Consistory, Pope Leo XIV officially announced his first canonizations: the young Blesseds Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati will be proclaimed saints on Sunday, September 7, 2025. They will be the first saints canonized by the new…

Pope Leo XIV has made a significant announcement that resonates with many believers and admirers of the Catholic faith. During an Ordinary Public Consistory, he revealed his first canonizations, bringing joy and excitement to the global Catholic community. The focus of this momentous occasion is on two remarkable young men: Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. Both are set to be proclaimed saints on September 7, 2025, marking a pivotal moment for the Church and its followers.

The Life of Carlo Acutis

Carlo Acutis was born on May 3, 1991, in London, England, but he spent most of his life in Italy. From a young age, Carlo exhibited a deep faith and a passion for technology. He was known for creating a website that cataloged Eucharistic miracles worldwide, demonstrating his dedication to sharing the beauty of the faith with others. His work has inspired many, especially the youth, to embrace their spirituality in the modern age.

Tragically, Carlo passed away at the young age of 15 due to leukemia. However, his legacy continues to thrive. He was beatified on October 10, 2020, a crucial step toward sainthood. His story resonates with many young people today, as he showed that faith and modern technology can go hand in hand.

For more on Carlo’s life and contributions, you can explore the [Vatican news](https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints/2020-10/carlo-acutis-beatification.html).

The Inspirational Life of Pier Giorgio Frassati

Next, we have Pier Giorgio Frassati, born on April 6, 1901, in Turin, Italy. Pier Giorgio was not only a devout Catholic but also an adventurous soul who loved the outdoors, hiking, and skiing. He had a profound love for the poor, often dedicating his time and resources to help those in need. His charismatic personality and deep faith made him a beloved figure among his friends and family.

Pier Giorgio’s life was tragically cut short when he died of polio at the age of 24. Despite his short life, he left an indelible mark on those around him. He was beatified on May 20, 1990, and is often referred to as the “Man of the Beatitudes.” His commitment to social justice and the teachings of Christ continues to inspire many today.

To learn more about Pier Giorgio’s incredible journey, check out the [National Shrine of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati](https://www.frassati.org).

The Significance of Their Canonization

The canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati holds immense significance for the Catholic Church. These two young men exemplify the virtues of faith, charity, and devotion. Their lives encourage young people to live out their faith authentically in today’s world. In a time when many struggle to find purpose, their stories serve as a reminder that holiness can be achieved in every stage of life, regardless of age.

This canonization event will not only celebrate their lives but also serve as a powerful message to the youth of today. Pope Leo XIV’s decision to canonize these two young saints emphasizes the Church’s recognition of the importance of engaging young people in their faith journey.

The Impact on the Youth

The announcement of these canonizations is particularly exciting for the youth. Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati embody the idea that holiness is attainable and relevant in the lives of young people. As the Church moves forward in its mission to connect with younger generations, these two figures serve as role models who demonstrate that faith can coexist beautifully with modern life.

Many young people today are navigating the complexities of life in a digital age, and Carlo’s use of technology to spread the message of the Gospel is a prime example of how faith can be shared in contemporary ways. Similarly, Pier Giorgio’s dedication to service and love for the needy can inspire young people to take action in their communities, fostering a spirit of charity and compassion.

What to Expect on September 7, 2025

As we look forward to September 7, 2025, preparations for the canonization ceremony are already underway. This historic event will take place in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, drawing thousands of pilgrims and admirers from around the world.

The ceremony is expected to be a grand celebration of faith, featuring prayers, hymns, and reflections on the lives of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. It will be a moment filled with joy, devotion, and a collective reaffirmation of faith among attendees.

For those unable to attend in person, the Vatican will likely provide live coverage, allowing people from all corners of the globe to participate in this significant occasion.

The Future of the Church

The canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati signifies a hopeful future for the Catholic Church. It demonstrates the Church’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of young people within the faith. This is especially important in a world where many young individuals feel disconnected from traditional institutions.

By highlighting the lives of these two saints, the Church sends a clear message: everyone, regardless of age, can contribute meaningfully to the faith and the community. This is a powerful reminder that each person has the potential to make a difference.

Join the Celebration

For those eager to engage with the celebration, there are numerous ways to get involved. Whether through local parish events, youth group gatherings, or online discussions, embracing the spirit of these young saints can foster a deeper connection to one’s faith.

Consider hosting a prayer service or discussion group focusing on the lives of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati as the canonization date approaches. Sharing their stories can inspire others to reflect on their own faith journeys and the impact they can have in their communities.

Conclusion: A New Era of Saints

As we await the canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, one thing is clear: the Church is entering a new era of recognizing the incredible contributions of young people. Their stories challenge us to embrace our faith actively and share it with others, regardless of the challenges we face in our lives.

This momentous occasion is not just a celebration of two remarkable individuals but also a call to all believers to live out their faith authentically and passionately. As we prepare for September 7, 2025, let’s honor the legacies of Carlo and Pier Giorgio by striving to embody the virtues they exemplified in our daily lives.